Palm Beach Atlantic University (PBA) continued its rich tradition of honoring community leaders who cherish faith, family, and service during its 34th Annual Women of Distinction Luncheon on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at the Breakers Palm Beach. Nearly 400 guests gathered for this signature event that not only recognizes those who have led well in the past, but those who will lead in the future.
Every year, proceeds raised at the luncheon fund scholarships for students who excel in academics, service, and leadership. Since its start, the event has raised over $2 million for scholarships. This year a record-breaking number of 16 students received scholarships, including Aaliyah Durant, Michah Sutter, Leah Grow, Valentina Guzman, Taylor Nelson, Mattea Fitch, Ruby Burk, Chelsea Riemersma, Nadine Kipe, Mary Stitts, Joshua Harlan, Tristen Ireri, Maasai VanBuren, Eloise Judy, Ashton Horne, Claire Crossman, and Hannah Atwell.
Luncheon Honors Sara McCann and Hilary Geary Ross
The 2026 Women of Distinction honorees are Hilary Geary Ross and Sara McCann. McCann, CEO and creative director of Hive Collective and PBA board member described the Hive’s early days. She dreamed of a luxurious home store, where clients could touch and feel and go home the same day with items to beautify their space. Soon after finding a location, McCann described their first obstacle.
“Our vision was bigger than our bank account,” she said at the luncheon. After a few chuckles, she continued. “Thankfully I was in a Bible study and our verse that week was Romans 8:28, ‘And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.’” McCann said God did work it out and provided for them. They were able to open their first store in November 2013. While they started with five team members, they have since ballooned to over 200 associates in several locations. In addition to her entrepreneurial efforts, McCann is a trustee at the Ann Norton Sculpture Gardens.
Ross is the author of two coffee table books, “New York, New York” (powerHouse Books, 2011) and “Palm Beach People” (powerHouse Books, 2014), both created in collaboration with renowned Scottish-American photographer Harry Benson.
In accepting her award, Ross said, “I’m deeply grateful to Palm Beach Atlantic University and truly humbled by this honor. Your support and recognition mean more to me than I can express. I’m especially thankful for my husband, Wilbur; my sister Robin; my goddaughter and my dear friends who are sharing this moment with me—your love and presence make this occasion even more meaningful.”
In her introduction of Ross, 2025 WOD Awardee Amanda Schumacher said, “Leadership is not about visibility. It is about stewardship. Hilary has consistently invested her time, treasure, talent into this community she loves.”
Ross currently serves on the board of the Blenheim Foundation USA, Palm Beach Preservation Foundation, and the Trustees’ Council of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.
3rd Annual Humanitarian Award Presented at Luncheon
PBA President Dr. Debra A. Schwinn also presented the third annual Humanitarian Award to PBA alumna and former CIA Intelligence Officer Michele Rigby Assad for her commitment to international diplomacy, exemplary leadership, and unwavering dedication to supporting PBA over the years. Copies of Assad’s books, “Breaking Cover: My Secret Life in the CIA and What it Taught Me About What’s Worth Fighting For” and “Get Off the X: Secrets for Conquering Obstacles and Achieving Your Life’s Mission,” were available to attendees.
At the beginning of the program, President Schwinn shared, “At Palm Beach Atlantic University, we are in a season of momentum. Our God-sized Dreams campaign is about preparing students for lives of purpose and service.” She continued, “It is about expanding academic excellence, investing in people and on-campus facilities, and ensuring that access to a Christ-first education remains strong for generations to come.”
The 34th Woman of Distinction was made possible with the support of community partners, including Black Diamond Sponsors SROA Capital and Amanda Schumacher, distinguished benefactor of 50 Schumacher Scholarships. Diamond Sponsors included Frances Fisher, Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, Gil Kemp, Wilbur and Hilary Ross, Jim and Sara McCann, and the Old Charles Fund in memory of Jean S. Tailer, 2001 Woman of Distinction recipient.
To learn more about this annual event, visit pba.edu/wod.
